Our Natural History Field Lab is an intensive, hands-on field experience that encourages students to explore local ecosystems firsthand, developing critical scientific observation and analytical skills through direct engagement with nature that supports both classroom learning and environmental literacy.
Students will work with a trained Chewonki field lab instructor and visit one or more of the 7 ecological zones on Chewonki Neck and learn the fundamentals of species identification, scientific observation and sampling, field journal notation, and more. Participants may encounter wet and uncomfortable environments, and are expected to arrive with appropriate waterproof footwear.
Field Lab Course Options:
Energy Cycling and Ecosystem Connections
A hands-on exploration of decomposition, connecting energy cycling, food webs, and the carbon/nitrogen cycles—to real-world environmental science. Students will use scientific tools to measure energy, conduct field observations of natural decay in the forest, estuary, and compost systems, and study live detritivores.
Midcoast Marine Science
Collect and compare water quality data to discover the impact that abiotic factors have on life in the marine ecosystem. Observe marine invertebrates, create naturalist illustrations, and learn how they are impacted by changing seas.
Custom Field Lab
Contact us to build a program to support classroom learning. From the forest to the sea, Chewonki’s access to diverse ecosystems provides the perfect place for students to experience field work firsthand.
Hours
Suggested visit time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Call us to coordinate your schedule.
Availability
Open Monday-Tuesday and Thursday–Friday during September–December and March–June.
Group Size
10-100 participants (groups smaller than 10 are welcome, but will be charged at the 10-person rate)
Supervision
All minors must be accompanied by a parent, teacher, or chaperone (we recommend 1 chaperone for every 10 children).
Lunch
Bring your own lunch! Picnic areas are available.
Pricing
$25 per student. No charge for chaperones. Groups smaller than 10 will be charged the 10-person group rate.
Add-Ons
Enhance your visit with a few extras, availability dependent on weather, season, and group size.
- Low Ropes Course (3 hrs with a few low elements) – $300 per group of 10
- 1-hour Natural History Presentation with live animals $350 per group of 30
- Binoculars and Bird Guidebook Rentals – $50 per group of 10
